The Folgers Coffee is hot and strong, just the way I like it. My little dog Nemo dozes on the floor beside me. The noise of the interstate is a far-off hum. The train rumbles to a stop downtown but it is a distant, comforting sound. Familiar sounds and rituals punctuate the morning but beneath it all, in the heart of our Nation, a strange and alien wind is sweeping through, toppling old landmarks and obliterating cherished ideals.
I’m not quite sure how it happened; maybe it started with the way we talk and what is now acceptable. Once, only a few years ago, language was not laced with coarse vulgarities. Words referring to body parts or functions were not a part of everyday speech. Now, the shock value has worn off and with the acceptance of crude speech, nobody notices that something of value has been lost.
Actions follow speech. Today, it is an insult to call someone a “lady” or to expect a man to act like a “gentleman”. Personally, I like for a man to hold open a car door and follow, not precede me when we are walking and to remove his cap or hat inside a building. Just small things, courtesies that maybe don’t matter or maybe they matter a lot.
I remember a Scripture, “Of the abundance of the heart, his mouth speaketh” (Luke 6:45). When listening to someone talk, it doesn’t take long to know what is in his heart.
Which brings up another point about speech: it can be used to dissemble, to cover up. Smooth words can mask the truth. Sometimes rhetoric sounds good, pious even. But what is under those lofty-sounding phrases? In breaking down barriers in speech and actions, the playing field is certainly leveling and it is made out of dirt.
Definitely, the winds of change are sweeping through. Let’s hold onto things of value. Cherish those small things that represent larger ideas and ideals. We may not be able to stop storms from coming but we can, at least, be aware and prepared. We can stand firmly rooted in truth; we can refuse to be swept away from our moorings by a strange and unfamiliar wind.
This morning, Google sent a monthly report of visitors to this blog. It was interesting. Now, I have some questions for you. What type of posts do you prefer seeing? Have you read one or more of my cozy mysteries? How often do you visit this blog? Please leave answers on the Comments section here or on my Facebook page. I’d really appreciate you input.
I read your blog posts every time I know there is one…and I even read the old ones!! I think..writing your thoughts…makes for a good post…what is going on in your day, what is happening around you..For me, it is encouraging to know..there is someone else out there in the world…that has thoughts, ideas, feelings..similar to mine..It is something that the pioneer women did not have..they were all alone..dependent on a rare letter, newspaper..news from travelers…This is how we learn…and think, and figure..from others…besides ourselves..You never know..what goes on in your world, can be helpful to anothers world…Keep blogging!!
Thanks for your insightful comment, Sue Ann. I’m so glad you enjoy reading my blog. Yes, I find it encouraging too that I’m not alone in my views and thoughts. Thanks for the encouragement.
I receive & read your blog post daily & really enjoy it. I have read all but the newest book & that is on my TBR pile.
Thank you for the comment, Doward. I’ve probably never told you but I enjoy and appreciate your support and have through the years. I’m so happy you’ve read my books. That really does warm my heart.
I look forward to reading your blog every day. I’ve read all your books at least once, and some of them more than that. I enjoy the history of this area and the way your characters get themselves into and out of scrapes. Cozy mysteries are my favorites to read along with a good cup of coffee.
Thanks so much, Peg. You are an encouragement. Yes, I agree that cozy mysteries are best read along with a cup of good, hot coffee.
I’ve read all of your cozies. I dont visit many blogs because I’m so busy but I head here every time you post to face book what you’ve posted here. And Iike anything you post! I love your reflections on things.
Thanks so much, Stephanie. What a wonderfully neat thing for you to say.